'Best' UK seaside resort named with ultimate balance of restaurants, activities and summer temperatures

Beach lovers have been given a top recommendation for the summer

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Anna Barry

By Anna Barry


Published: 23/05/2024

- 18:23

Britons planning a summer staycation should look no further than Brighton

While a holiday abroad promises adventure and new experiences, it can also be expensive and stressful, making a staycation the ultimate holiday option.

Brighton may be the perfect spot for a UK escape, according to new research. Its average temperature is a pleasant 16.7C, it boasts activities galore, there's an extremely generous selection of bars and restaurants to choose from.


For those looking to hit the beach this summer, Britons can't go wrong with Brighton.

New research found that there are 814 restaurants, 104 cafes and 47 bars to drink and dine in, plus hundreds of activities to get stuck into.

Royal Pavilion, Brighton

An 'epic building unlike anything else'

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Brighton's beach score was 3.8 out of five, according to the research by VSO.

However, because Brighton is such a popular holiday hotspot, with Britons flocking there from far and wide every summer, it's not the cheapest place to visit, with holidaymakers splashing an average of £847.89 for a week-long Airbnb stay there.

Nevertheless, its plethora of activities and eateries means it received an overall score of 8.14 out of 10.

The researchers said: "Brighton, on the UK's south coast, ranks as the best seaside spot in the UK. It boasts the most restaurants (814), cafes (104), and activities (593) compared to other analysed resorts.

"The city offers global cuisine, charming lanes, classic pier amusements – and the iconic Brighton Pier arcade, of course."

The UK's 10 best seaside resorts in 2024

  1. Brighton
  2. Swansea
  3. Blackpool
  4. Bournemouth
  5. Hastings
  6. Southend on Sea
  7. Poole
  8. Eastbourne
  9. Worthing
  10. Skegness

Top attractions in Brighton include the Royal Pavilion, The Lanes, and Brighton Beach.

One visitor told Tripadvisor that the Royal Pavilion is an "epic building unlike anything else".

They went on to say: "This building is unlike any country house or palace I have seen before. The house is a fantasy vision realised and offers beautiful interiors. There is endless inspiration to stimulate creative minds.

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Brighton Beach

​Brighton is a popular choice among Britons on a staycation

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"Very well presented and great knowledgable enthusiastic staff who are happy to embellish your visit with in-depth knowledge. Worth the price." A Royal Pavillion Annual Pass includes free return visits for a whole year from the date of issue, and costs £19 for adults and £11.50 for children aged five to eight.

Speaking about The Lanes, which boasts an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, one visitor said: "It's the nicest part of Brighton."

Describing Brighton Beach as "clean and beautiful", one seaside goer said: "A clean beach with excellent views. Lots of space to sunbathe and swim in the sea. There are lots of attractions along the seafront and plenty of places to eat. Just a shame about the pebbles! Overall, it’s a classic place to go."

For Britons looking for a cheaper UK beach holiday, Skegness might be your best bet.

According to the research, this Lincolnshire spot is "the most affordable seaside resort", with the average cost of an Airbnb for a week at £485.75.

It boasts an average summer temperature of 15.57C, 142 restaurants and 100 activities to choose from, although it's limited to just eight bars.

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